Asian Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Studies

Optimizing inventory management in academic libraries is crucial for maintaining relevant collections, ensuring operational efficiency, and upholding financial accountability. This study examines inventory control practices in Karnataka's college libraries, with a particular focus on weeding policies and write-off procedures. Grounded in regulatory frameworks such as the Karnataka Financial Code and the Department of Collegiate Education guidelines. This study employs a robust mixed-methods approach, combining institutional surveys, document analysis, and case studies to ensure methodological depth and practical relevance. Findings highlight inconsistencies in implementation, challenges in administrative approval processes, and gaps in technological adoption, despite established regulatory mandates. Best practices, including continuous inventory tracking, integration of digital tools, and collaborative disposal models, offer pathways to streamlined operations. Recommendations emphasize policy harmonization, enhanced technological implementation, and collaborative strategies to optimize inventory workflows. By addressing institutional inefficiencies, this study contributes to the development of standardized, transparent, and effective inventory management systems, ensuring Karnataka's academic libraries remain dynamic and resource-efficient.